Host-Guest Interactions Induced Self-Assembly of Colloidal Micromotors with Regulated Motion Behavior

In recent years, extensive strategies are developed for designing and manufacturing micro- and nanomotors. However, the controlled assembly and motion modulation of self-assembled micromotors via directional interactions remain challenging. While host-guest systems, particularly azobenzene-β-cyclodextrin (Azo-β-CD) interactions, are well-established in supramolecular chemistry, their application to structurally guided micromotor assembly and motion control is underexplored. Here, this host-guest chemistry is integrated with established catalytic (Pt/H₂O₂) and magnetic actuation mechanisms to achieve programmable assembly of micromotors with defined architectures. By using Azo- and β-CD-modified microspheres as host and guest components separately, spatially controlled assembly is demonstrated into structured motors. The motors have dual-mode propulsion: chemically driven motion via Pt-catalyzed decomposition of 10 wt.% H₂O₂ and magnetic field-directed locomotion. This synergy of supramolecular assembly and established actuation mechanisms advances structural precision in micromotor design, offering a platform for multifunctional systems. The findings bridge supramolecular chemistry and microengineering, providing a framework for applications requiring tailored architectures and multimodal motion, such as targeted drug delivery or environmental sensing.